Hardwickes

Hardwickes is a surname of English origin. It is a habitational name, deriving from the place name Hardwick, which is found in several locations throughout England. The name Hardwick itself is composed of the Old English elements "heard" meaning "hard" or "difficult" and "wic" meaning "a dwelling," "a village," or "a farmstead." Therefore, Hardwick originally described a settlement on difficult or exposed terrain. Over time, individuals from these places, or those associated with them, adopted Hardwicke as a surname, often with the addition of the possessive 's' to indicate "of Hardwick."

Notable individuals bearing the surname Hardwicke include Philip Yorke, 1st Earl of Hardwicke, a prominent British statesman and Lord High Chancellor of Great Britain in the 18th century. His descendants continued to hold significant positions in British society. The surname is relatively uncommon but can be found in various English-speaking countries. Variations in spelling may exist due to historical transcription practices. The Hardwicke title, associated with the Earldom, has been a notable part of British aristocratic history.